HOT STONE MASSAGE THERAPY
While it may be easy to sometimes forget, the mind and body are deeply and intrinsically linked. Stress from the brain can be stored as tension in the body, and likewise physical discomfort can affect mental wellbeing too. At New Leaf we believe that caring for both is essential for synergistic mental and physical wellness. We are proud to offer our patients hot stone massage therapy to soothe and release tension and pain, giving relaxation and relief from stress and anxiety.
What is it and where did it come from?
The patient lays on a massage table where the hot stones are arranged on the body on muscles and acupressure points. They can be placed in various places such as along the spine, hands, feet, stomach or even the face. Along with the use of oil, the therapist then uses the stones to apply pressure and movement to massage targeted areas.
The heat allows the muscles to soften and blood vessels to expand, increasing blood flow and allowing for a deeper yet more comfortable massage treatment. This results in greater muscle relaxation and increased circulation at the directly treated areas. Other parts of the body also receive benefits through the activation of pressure points and the increase of lymphatic flow, encouraging natural detoxification and healing.
This session can also be combined with Reiki healing to provide the ultimate therapeutic experience.
Heat has long been used to ease muscle tension and pain, helping increase blood flow to the affected area. Pieces of smooth, flat volcanic rock are carefully heated and placed, sitting to radiate warmth or with pressure or movement applied. This technique dates back over 5000 years to Indian Ayurveda (Sanskrit for the science of life). Over the millennia, it has proliferated across Asia, in Hawaii, and with indigenous tribes of North America. The modern form of this developed over 30 years ago in the Southwest, and has been spreading and growing in popuarity since.
How it works
Helps relieve muscle tension and pain
Reduces stress and anxiety
Treats chronic pain and arthritis.
May be an alternative to sleeping pills in adults with insomnia
May help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases
May relieve painful conditions such as fibromyalgia.
May help decrease cancer symptoms
Helps with muscle soreness in exercise recovery
Boosts immunity
May reduce muscle spasms
Can increase flexibility and range of motion
Benefits
FAQ
What temperature are the hot stones?
They're typically warmed up between 110 to 130 degrees, where they are hot to the point of soothing, but not to the point of burning the skin. Always communicate with your therapist about pain or discomfort to ensure you get the right treatment for you, and as it is intended to be.
How long is the massage?
We offer sessions in lengths of 30, 50, or 70 minutes. Half hour or 50 minute treatments are a great way to relax and rejuvenate.
Is it for everyone?
While it is completely safe, hot stone is not recommended for those with certain skin conditions, heat sensitivity or compromised immunity. Ask one of our team to be sure!
